Disney+ Unveils Its Next Dark Korean Thriller: The Manipulated
Disney+ has officially revealed the main trailer and character posters for its highly anticipated Korean original series The Manipulated, an intense 12-episode revenge thriller set to premiere on November 5, 2025. The drama stars Ji Chang-wook as Park Tae-joong, a man wrongfully accused and determined to destroy the person who orchestrated his downfall. Opposite him, Doh Kyung-soo (D.O.) takes on a chilling new persona as Ahn Yo-han — the manipulator pulling the strings behind a dangerous game of deceit and vengeance.
With the trailer’s release on October 14, viewers are already captivated by its powerful blend of psychological tension, cinematic visuals, and haunting music. The teaser’s black-and-white aesthetic mirrors the moral ambiguity at the heart of the story — where truth, lies, and revenge intertwine.
The Plot: A Man Betrayed, A Game of Manipulation Begins
The Manipulated follows Park Tae-joong, a man living an ordinary life until one day he becomes the victim of a cruel scheme. Framed for a crime he didn’t commit, he loses everything — his freedom, his family, and his identity. As he fights to uncover the truth, Tae-joong learns that his tragedy was not a coincidence but a carefully designed plan executed by Ahn Yo-han, a mastermind obsessed with control.
The series explores how manipulation can destroy lives — not just through lies, but through calculated emotional and psychological warfare. As Tae-joong’s revenge begins, so does a dangerous power struggle that challenges both men’s morals and humanity.
Stellar Cast & Powerful Performances
The drama boasts a strong ensemble cast, including Lee Kwang-soo and Jo Yoon-su in pivotal supporting roles that add depth and complexity to the storyline. Ji Chang-wook brings his signature emotional intensity and charisma, while Doh Kyung-soo’s portrayal of a calm yet menacing antagonist is already drawing attention for its transformation.
The chemistry between the two leads, paired with the series’ suspenseful writing and sharp direction, promises to deliver one of Disney+ Korea’s most gripping originals of the year.
What Makes The Manipulated a Must-Watch
The trailer highlights breathtaking sequences, dramatic confrontations, and moments of raw emotion. The monochrome posters released alongside the trailer serve as a metaphor for the show’s dual themes — justice and manipulation, truth and illusion.
As Disney+ continues to expand its Korean content lineup, The Manipulated stands out for its cinematic storytelling, psychological depth, and A-list casting. For fans of thrillers like The Glory, Flower of Evil, or Reborn Rich, this series promises a dark yet emotionally charged narrative filled with shocking twists and layered characters.
Premiere Date: November 5, 2025,
Platform: Disney+ (Worldwide Release)
Episodes: 12
Genre: Revenge, Psychological Thriller, Suspense
The first four episodes will be released on premiere day, followed by two new episodes every Wednesday until the finale on December 3, 2025.
Final Takeaway
The Manipulated is shaping up to be one of Disney+ Korea’s boldest and most compelling revenge thrillers yet. With Ji Chang-wook and Doh Kyung-soo leading a story steeped in mystery, betrayal, and retribution, this drama will keep audiences questioning who’s really in control — the manipulator or the manipulated.
